Langonnet Abbey
Cistercian·France·Active (partially, as a museum and missionary center)·12th century
Langonnet Abbey, formally the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Langonnet, was a former Cistercian monastery founded in 1136 in Brittany, France. Throughout its history, it endured periods of destruction and rebuilding, serving as a religious center, a stud farm under Napoleon, and later as a missionary base. Today, it houses elderly Spiritan missionaries, a museum of African art, and a missionary animation center.
Key Facts
- ›Founded on June 20, 1136, by Conan III, Duke of Brittany, and his mother Ermengarde of Anjou.
- ›The chapter house, dating back to the 13th century, is a notable surviving vestige of the original architecture.
- ›Suffered significant destruction during the War of the Breton Succession and was rebuilt multiple times.
- ›Briefly served as Brittany's first public stud farm from 1807 to 1857 under Napoleon I.
- ›Currently belongs to the Congrégation du Saint-Esprit (Congregation of the Holy Spirit).
- ›Listed as a monument historique by decree on September 25, 1928.
Ogival
- 13th-Century Chapter House
- Museum of African Art
- Missionary Animation Center
- Part of the Former Abbey Buildings Are Still In Use By the CongréGation Du Saint-Esprit
Abbey of Notre-Dame De Langonnet, Abbaye De Langonnet, Abbaye Notre-Dame De Langonnet
Conan Iii, Sovereign Duke of Brittany, Ermengarde of Anjou, Raoul, Bishop of Cornouaille, Maurice Duault De Croixanvec, Vincent De KergoëT, Henri De KergoëT, Claude De MarbœUf, FrançOis Chevreul, Guy éDer De La Fontenelle, Napoleon I, General Baron De Wimpfen, A. Marteville, P. Varin, Achille Du CléSieux, Sam Poupon, Georges Goyau, Father Jean Prat, Mgr FrançOis CléRet De Langavant
- Founded In 1136.
- Ruined During the War of the Breton Succession.
- Rebuilt Between 1470 and 1518.
- Monks Expelled and Church Used As A Stable During the League War .
- Largely Rebuilt Between 1650 and 1780.
- Church Dedicated In 1789.
- Monks Expelled During the French Revolution .
- Attacked By Armed Men In 1801.
- Established As A Stud Farm In 1807.
- Stud Farm Moved In 1856-1857.
- Relic of Saint Maurice of CarnoëT Translated To the Abbey In 1880.
- Celebrated 50th Anniversary of Relic Translation In 1930.
- Founded the Cercle De L'Abbaye In 1950 To Revive Breton Dance.
About Langonnet Abbey
Langonnet Abbey, officially known as the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Langonnet, is a former Cistercian monastery located in Brittany, France. Its history is marked by periods of significant destruction and subsequent rebuilding, reflecting the turbulent historical landscape of the region. The abbey's origins trace back to June 20, 1136, when it was founded by Conan III, the sovereign duke of Brittany, and his mother Ermengarde of Anjou.
Historical Significance and Transformation
The early Cistercian monks at Langonnet were tasked with reclaiming and cultivating the marshy and boggy land. Over centuries, the abbey amassed considerable landholdings, owning numerous villages, manors, mills, and forests. However, it also faced severe damage during conflicts such as the War of the Breton Succession, leading to its devastation and exemption from taxes by the Cistercian Order's General Chapter. The abbey was extensively rebuilt between the 17th and 18th centuries.
During the French Revolution, the monks were expelled, and the abbey was put up for sale. It later served as a refuge for various factions and was even attacked. A significant transformation occurred in the early 19th century when, by decree of Napoleon I in 1807, Langonnet Abbey became the site of Brittany's first public stud farm. This establishment housed numerous stallions and brood mares, playing a role in the development of Breton horse breeds.
Modern Era and Current Use
After the stud farm was relocated in 1856-1857, the abbey returned to the Congrégation du Saint-Esprit (Congregation of the Holy Spirit). It subsequently housed an agricultural colony for children and later served as a school, scholasticate, and novitiate for the Brothers of the Holy Spirit, preparing them for missionary work, particularly in Africa. The translation of the relic of Saint Maurice of Carnoët to Langonnet Abbey in 1880 was a major event, attracting large crowds.
Today, Langonnet Abbey continues its missionary legacy. It functions as a place of rest for elderly Spiritan missionaries. Additionally, it hosts a museum dedicated to African art, showcasing objects collected by former missionaries, and serves as a missionary animation center. The chapter house, dating from the 13th century, remains a key architectural feature, offering a glimpse into the abbey's medieval past, while other parts of the complex have seen reconstructions and alterations throughout the centuries.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Langonnet Abbey founded?
Langonnet Abbey was founded on June 20, 1136. The founding was carried out by Conan III, sovereign duke of Brittany, and his mother Ermengarde of Anjou.
What historical periods has Langonnet Abbey experienced?
The abbey has a long and varied history, from its medieval founding and periods of devastation during conflicts like the War of the Breton Succession, through its rebuilding in the modern period. It was later repurposed as a stud farm in the 19th century and has since served missionary purposes.
What notable architectural features remain at Langonnet Abbey?
The most significant surviving architectural element is the 13th-century chapter house, characterized by its ogival doorway and interior with stone vaults. While the abbey has undergone many alterations, this structure provides a glimpse into its medieval past.
What is the current function of Langonnet Abbey?
As of the 20th century, Langonnet Abbey serves as a resting place for elderly Spiritan missionaries. It also houses a museum dedicated to African art, featuring collections gathered by former missionaries, and operates as a missionary animation center.
Was Langonnet Abbey ever used for non-religious purposes?
Yes, for a significant period in the 19th century, between 1807 and 1857, the abbey was transformed into Brittany's first public stud farm by decree of Napoleon I. This marked a substantial departure from its original monastic function.
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